As a seasoned tech enthusiast with a knack for disassembling and reassembling devices, I found myself embarking on a thrilling journey with my new ROG Ally. The initial excitement was quickly overshadowed by an unexpected issue with the right bumper – a problem that seemed to haunt many other users since the device’s launch.
Following my anticipation, I’d finally managed to secure a ROG Ally during the Black Friday deals. Upon its arrival, I proceeded to set it up, install games, and even add a protective case. The moment had finally arrived for me to give it a try.
Oh no, straight away there was a problem with the right bumper (RB). Interestingly enough, the left one functioned perfectly fine. Unfortunately, the right one would work sporadically before completely failing. The horror indeed!
Since Amazon could only provide a refund that doesn’t account for the current cost of replacing the product, and dealing with an RMA through ASUS isn’t my preferred choice, I decided to tackle the problem myself. It appears I’m not the only one encountering issues with the bumpers as it seems to be a common complaint since the Ally was initially launched.
Regardless, it appears that out of the three actions I took, at least one, possibly even more than one, seems to have fixed the problem. I can’t help but write this with my fingers crossed, fearing that I might be tempting fate.
I identified the issue using an online diagnostic tool, followed by disassembling it, updating the BIOS that had been overlooked during the initial setup phase, and ultimately removing it from its casing. Here’s my story.
Diagnosing the right bumper
Initially, I attempted to identify whether the problem stemmed from the bumper or if it was a strange glitch in the video games I had been using. Although an Xbox controller is expected to function without issues, it’s always wise not to jump to conclusions.
To troubleshoot controller problems, I found the Gamepad Tester online tool very useful. I strongly suggest giving it a try; it works great. For the ROG Ally, ensure that it’s set to Gamepad Mode instead of Auto to avoid recognition issues.
Observing the device, I noticed that interacting with it primarily involved pressing buttons and observing responses on the app. My left button (LB) functioned flawlessly, but my right button (RB) presented some issues. Certain presses yielded no response at all, while others produced minimal feedback. At times, it only registered if I angled the press in a specific direction, either towards or away from me. This inconsistency was clear evidence that there was a problem with the RB.
Step 1: Open it up!
Given my familiarity with disassembling computers and exploring their insides, it’s only natural that I started there. Some online discussions pointed towards potential issues with a component of the trigger mechanism, which made it an obvious place to begin investigation.
The triggers are attached to the rear panel, but there’s a tiny rubber pad beneath it. If this gets displaced, you’ll need to push it back into its proper position as it can solve any issues related to bumpers or triggers. In my case, it was correctly aligned, so this wasn’t an issue here.
The bumpers are fixed to the front of the Ally, and I was not feeling completely dismantling it to get a better look. Instead, I sprayed some compressed air in, just in case there was any dust or whatnot that may have found its way in from manufacturing. Then, I put it all back together and hoped for the best.
At first glance, it seemed hopeful, but it might’ve just been an extraordinary fluke. Shortly afterward, it started causing issues once more.
Step 2: Updating the BIOS/Firmware
Initially setting up the ROG Ally, it was found that as a Windows 11 PC at its core, there were numerous updates required. Both Windows Update and Armoury Crate took care of most of the significant tasks, yet one essential update seemed to have been overlooked.
Through the MyASUS application on your Ally device, the BIOS Update is provided. It seemed I had overlooked this, discovering an update was available. Considering the importance of the operation, ensure that your device is properly plugged in before proceeding with installation.
I didn’t modify the BIOS, but I ensured all firmware, BIOS, and software were up-to-date. Surprisingly, there was a change for a while, but unfortunately, the intermittent keyboard input issue returned when playing Call of Duty Black Ops 6. It’s quite frustrating when the Molotov doesn’t throw correctly in the game.
Step 3: Removing the case
I purchased the JSAUX ModCase for my ROG Ally, but I’ve decided to take it off for the time being, given current circumstances. However, please note that my opinion of the case itself remains positive. I suspect the one I bought might be faulty.
To put it simply, it smoothly attaches to the Ally, but there was an odd sensation from the start when comparing it to my dBrand Killswitch on my Steam Deck. It seemed overly tight on the right-side, making installation harder than expected, and it didn’t align as well as I would have liked compared to the other side of the Ally.
Despite some damage during removal, I’m questioning if the product I received might have a manufacturing flaw. It’s unfortunate, but I plan on returning it to Amazon as defective and requesting a new one since I appreciate the case quite a bit.
Beyond the narrow passage, there didn’t seem to be anything noticeable, but maybe it was subtly obstructing the RB button as well. It appeared that it fitted more snugly around the LB, which suggests that it might have been a better fit. So, it’s not out of question.
Following the last stage, and possibly factors from the previous one that may have contributed, it seems like everything is back to how it should be – or at least I fervently hope so. If not, rest assured I will return to this article with further attempts to resolve the issue.
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2024-12-10 19:41